Where would you like to sign in?

Harper Government Introduces New Legislation to Protect Sable Island National Park Reserve

HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA--(Marketwire - Feb. 12, 2013) -

Editors' note: A photo is associated with this press release.

The Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Minister of Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced that a bill to formally protect Sable Island National Parks Reserve under the Canada National Parks Act has been tabled in the Senate of Canada.

"The Government of Canada is proud to table the Expansion and Conservation of Canada's National Parks Act which will ensure the highest level of protection for Sable Island, its majestic horses, expansive dunes and abundant flora and fauna," said Minister Kent. "With the passing of this legislation, Sable Island will be protected for present and future generations under the Canada National Parks Act, our country's strongest legislation for the protection of natural areas."

An iconic windswept crescent of sand and one of Canada's furthest offshore islands, Sable Island is famous for its wild horses, shipwrecks and countless species of birds and plants. A unique treasure, Sable Island holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Nova Scotians and Canadians, and has inspired artists and writers locally, across the country and internationally.

In October 2011, Minister Kent and the Honourable Darrell Dexter, Premier of Nova Scotia, signed the Memorandum of Agreement to create a National Park at Sable Island. The proposed bill is the final step in the designation of the island for protection under the Canada National Parks Act.

"The people of Nova Scotia have long held Sable Island as an integral part of their maritime heritage so we are pleased to see its protection as a national park is moving forward," said The Honourable Charlie Parker, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister of Energy for Nova Scotia. "The national park designation will give Sable Island the highest level of protection of its natural and cultural features for present and future generations."

"Establishing Sable Island as a national park reserve further builds on Parks Canada's successes in expanding Canada's system of protected places," said Minister Kent. "Through our consultations with the Mi'kmaq, the public and key stakeholders, Canadians have told us overwhelmingly that they support the designation of Sable Island as a national park reserve."

Parks Canada works to ensure Canada's historic and natural heritage is protected and invites Canadians and people around the world to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery at our treasured natural and historic places. Parks Canada's network now includes 44 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and four national marine conservation areas. Since 2006, the Government of Canada has taken actions to add 147,639 square kilometres to Parks Canada's network of protected areas. As a result, this would increase the total land and water that comes under our stewardship by more than half.

For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.